How do you avoid fungus on squash plants?

Thanks, Olivia. In other words, I should try to “lift” the squash off the ground?

Hi, Ellen!,

Yes. By keeping them elevated, they are far more likely to have better air circulation. You still want to insure there is adequate space between plants when planting for the season, given their tendency to sprawl out, but the "cradle" or "hammock" provided by the nylon stocking makes them less likely to be splashed by fungus in the soil, during rain storms. Additionally, if you have access to "soaker hoses" placed under black plastic before you plant, the squash receives water only at root level, other than during rain storms. If your fungus is spread by insects(less likely), you can surround the perimeter with French marigolds, which attract beneficial insects but destroy soil borne nematodes.